Seward Ford has been associated with the airport lighting industry for over 40 years. During this time, his activities have included the following: He has worked for Crouse-Hinds Airport Lighting Products, holding positions during his tenure of Manager of Engineering and Marketing Manager.

In 1994, Mr. Ford established Visual Aids Services for the purpose of providing various support and consulting services to the visual aids industry. Seward’s current activity includes providing services to Optimus Engineering of Washington, D.C.

Optimus is supporting the efforts of the FAA Surface Technology Assessment Team, AND-520. The team is assessing potential technical solutions for improving visual cues to the pilot for both the Part 139 and non-Part 139 airports in all weather conditions.
Mr. Ford has provided upgrades to FAA Airports Division, AAS-100 for AC 150/5345-42 Specification For Airport Light Bases, Transformer Housings, Junction Boxes, And Accessories and AC 150/5340-26A Maintenance of Airport Visual Aid Facilities

Mr. Ford has the following current affiliations:

• Member of Illuminating Engineering Society of North America since April 1978.

• Currently Technical Advisor for the United States National Committee of IEC pertaining to TC-97 Electrical Installations for Lighting and Beaconing of Aerodromes. Promoted initial US involvement in this international effort.

• Member of the FAA working group that authored the Advisory Circular 150/5345-56, “Specifications for L-890 Airport Lighting control and Monitoring Systems” for the FAA covering airport lighting control systems.